That Time of Year
As summer winds down, college campuses across the country buzz with excitement. It’s that time of year when high school graduates pack their bags, load up the car, and head off to college for the first time. Whether you’re pulling into your new dorm or cheering on your student from home, this milestone marks the beginning of an incredible journey.
Starting college can bring a mix of eagerness and jitters. For first-generation students and seasoned scholars alike, the weeks leading up to move-in day are filled with anticipation, nerves, and countless questions. From finding your way around campus to making friends at orientation, every moment is new territory. A few strategic steps can turn that anxious energy into momentum for freshman year success.
College life differs from high school in almost every way. You’ll have more freedom, a different academic pace, and living away from home brings both independence and responsibility. No more rolling out of bed for back-to-back classes; now you’re managing your own schedule, budgeting your meals, and balancing social activities with study sessions. Embracing this transition is key to building confidence as a new college student.
In fact, 23% of students who dropped out of college in 2024 were freshmen1, underscoring how critical the first year is for long-term success. On the flip side, 76.5% of students who started college in fall 2022 returned for their second year, marking a 10-year high in persistence rates12. These numbers show both the challenges and the progress being made in supporting new students.
Top College Freshman Tips for Your First Week
Follow Your College Move-in Day Checklist
Use a tailored college move-in day checklist to streamline unpacking and dorm setup. Break tasks into bite-sized steps: unpack bedding first, pin up a calendar, and designate study and relaxation zones. Having a clear plan reduces stress and gives you space to breathe.Explore Campus Landmarks
Take a self-guided tour to locate academic buildings, dining halls, the library, and student center. Mapping these spots on your phone helps you feel at home faster and prevents last-minute dashes between classes.Attend College Orientation Events
College orientation tips stress that attending social mixers, academic workshops, and club fairs is essential. You’ll meet fellow freshmen, connect with upperclassmen mentors, and discover clubs that align with your interests—everything from intramural sports to student government.Set Up Your Study Space
Identify a quiet corner in your dorm or on campus and organize your college dorm essentials: a laptop stand, noise-canceling headphones, and a desk lamp. A dedicated study area supports focus and helps establish a consistent routine for academic success.Establish a Routine
Craft a weekly schedule that balances classes, study blocks, meals, and downtime. Consistency is a hallmark of freshman year success, so prioritize sleep, healthy meals, and short breaks to recharge.Connect with Your Roommate
Break the ice with a roommate by sharing a quick questionnaire: sleep preferences, study habits, and favorite tunes. Open communication from day one paves the way for a harmonious living situation.Find Your Support Network
Locate campus resources like counseling services, academic advising, and tutoring centers. Building this network early ensures you have guidance when deadlines and exams intensify.
How Parents Can Support the Transition
Respect Their Independence
Encourage your student to make decisions, from class schedules to meal planning. Offering guidance without taking over helps build their self-reliance.Keep Communication Open
Set up regular check-ins via text or video calls, but let your student lead the conversation. A simple “How did orientation go today?” shows you’re there without adding pressure.Help with Practicalities
Send care packages with dorm-friendly snacks, toiletries, or a cozy throw. These thoughtful gestures comfort students adjusting to the college environment.Encourage Campus Engagement
Remind your freshman about campus events and student organizations. Suggest they attend club meetings or explore intramural sports as a way to make friends and develop leadership skills.Allow Room for Growth
It’s normal for students to experiment and learn from mistakes. Support them as they navigate time management, roommate conflicts, and new responsibilities.
How Ardent Workshop Can Help
As you and your student embrace this exciting chapter, preparation and support make all the difference. To make sure you don’t miss a single item, check out Ardent Workshop’s College Dorm Checklist—an Excel tool designed to ensure you have everything you need to set up your college dorm room and bring all essentials for a successful freshman year.